#Match Report: England continue to Reign in Friendly against Costa Rica

Summary

England concluded their World Cup preparations in impressive fashion by comfortably beating Costa Rica at Elland Road.

Manager Gareth Southgate made 10 changes from Saturday’s win against Nigeria at Wembley – and was rewarded with some fine individual displays and a commanding team performance in their final friendly before they depart for Russia.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford was the standout performer, pressing his World Cup claims with an outstanding first-half strike to put England ahead and threatening throughout.

Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope was given his debut as a second-half replacement for Jack Butland as Southgate made a host of changes, and Danny Welbeck – another substitute – wrapped up a thoroughly deserved win with a diving header from Dele Alli’s ball.

Highlights

Moments

8′ Attempt saved. Phil Jones (England) header from the centre of the box is saved in the top left corner. Assisted by Fabian Delph with a cross. 13′ Goal! England 1, Costa Rica 0. Marcus Rashford (England) right footed shot from outside the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Ruben Loftus-Cheek. 20′ Attempt saved. Jamie Vardy (England) right footed shot from very close range is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Harry Maguire with a headed pass. 27′ Attempt saved. Johan Venegas (Costa Rica) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Assisted by Marco Ureña. 56′ Attempt saved. Jordan Henderson (England) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by Ruben Loftus-Cheek with a headed pass. 75′ Attempt missed. Danny Rose (England) right footed shot from the left side of the box is close, but misses to the left. 76′ Goal! England 2, Costa Rica 0. Danny Welbeck (England) header from very close range to the top right corner. Assisted by Dele Alli.